Michelle Cacija

Immerse yourself in the City of Love: Paris Awaits! Begin your days with the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked croissants and brewed coffee drifting through the charming streets of Paris. Wander through the captivating maze of the Louvre, where timeless masterpieces and hidden treasures fill every corner. Climb the steps to Montmartre’s Sacré-Cœur for breathtaking panoramic views over the city. Unwind with a simple picnic under the Eiffel Tower, enjoying baguettes and a big Babybel as you soak in the romance of this iconic spot. Paris is ready to cast its spell on you — are you ready? If yes, then servus and welcome to my four-day itinerary. Pack your suitcase and discover the unforgettable charm of the City of Love!

As always, I want to remind you, that this itinerary isn’t perfect because everyone travels differently, and all trips involve changes of plans. I want to let you know that everything on this website has been experienced, photographed, and written by me. Since I finance all my travel expenses on my own, the stories and opinions given are truly my own. If you’re interested in seeing more travel pictures or videos, feel free to check out my Instagram @michellecacija or my Tik Tok @michellecacija.

Index

1. The Basics about Paris
2. Things you need to be aware of
3. Medical insurance
4. Itinerary
5. Summary of activities
6. Summary of where to eat
7. Other France Blog

The Basics about Paris

When to visit

Paris is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are probably spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, with fewer crowds compared to the summer peak, when the city is fully packed with tourists. Winter can be magical as well, with festive lights and lower travel costs, though the weather is cooler. Each season brings its own charm, so your visit depends on whether you want to experience Paris in full bloom, fall colors, or cozy winter vibes.

Time period

A four to five-day stay in Paris is perfect for getting a good feel of the city without being rushed. It gives you enough time to see major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame, while still allowing for relaxed strolls through neighborhoods. A week or more would be ideal for deeper exploration or day trips to nearby areas like Disneyland, Versailles or Giverny, but four to five days strikes a great balance for first-time visitors. If you’re short on time, three days could work, but expect it to be fully planned.

Getting There

Paris is well-connected with Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY) for international flights. If you’re traveling from other parts of Europe, the Eurostar train to Gare du Nord from London, or high-speed trains from major cities, are fantastic options. From the airports, the RER train or shuttle buses provide quick and affordable access to the city center, while taxis and rideshares are a bit pricier.

Where to stay

Paris offers a wide range of accommodations for every budget. For a central stay, consider the 1st arrondissement (Louvre) or the 4th arrondissement (Hôtel de Ville) near the Louvre and Notre-Dame, which provide easy access to major attractions, though these areas can be quite expensive. Montmartre, the 18th arrondissement, is another fantastic area known for its artistic history and city views.

On my first trip, I stayed in the 13th arrondissement (Gobelins), which had a distinctly local feel and fewer tourists. The hotel was charming, affordable, and although a bit far from the main attractions, everything was easily accessible by Paris’s well-connected metro system. Paris also offers numerous Airbnb options and hostels for budget travelers.

Getting Around

Paris has an efficient public transportation system, with the metro and buses covering almost every corner of the city. Walking is another great way to explore, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, biking could be an option, especially along the scenic banks of the Seine. Taxis and rideshares like Uber are available but can be more expensive. Be prepared to navigate narrow, cobblestone streets, especially in older neighborhoods like Le Marais or Montmartre.

What To Pack

When packing for Paris, think stylish but practical. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you’ll be on your feet a lot, exploring the city’s streets and sights. Layering is key, as Paris weather can change throughout the day. In winter, a warm coat, gloves, and boots are necessary, while in summer, light dresses or shorts are perfect for the warm days. Don’t forget an umbrella, as Paris is known for its occasional rain showers.

Additionaly, consider bringing your own little medication bag, including Band-Aids, pain relief tablets, sleeping tablets or spray, bug spray, aftersun, etc. You never know what you might need it for, and you might feel more comfortable using medication from home rather than in a country where you don’t know the ingredients and languages. If you’re coming from outside Europe, don’t forget to bring a Type C power adapter.

Cost of Traveling

Paris, while an iconic and dream destination, can be quite expensive, especially in terms of accommodation and dining. However, there are ways to manage the costs and still have an unforgettable experience. Public transportation in Paris is quite affordable, with the metro, buses, and trams offering efficient and reasonably priced options for getting around. Many of the city’s major attractions, such as the beautiful gardens, historic neighborhoods, and famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, can be enjoyed from the outside for free. While museums and other attractions may charge an entrance fee, there are also free museums and events throughout the year, particularly in the off-season. Additionally, for many young people under 26, museums and similar attractions offer reduced or even free entry.

Dining in Paris can be pricey, but there are also plenty of budget-friendly options like local boulangeries, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy delicious meals. Accommodations in the city vary, with more affordable options available if you’re willing to stay outside the central tourist areas. With a little planning, Paris can be enjoyed on a moderate budget, especially if you make the most of its free attractions and explore the city on foot or with public transport.

Things you need to be aware of

Water in Paris. You can safely drink the tap water in Paris! It’s clean and safe for consumption, so you don’t need to worry about buying bottled water while you’re there.

Toilet situation. It’s common to find public toilets in shopping centers, parks, and transportation hubs. Some places may require a small fee for using public toilets, so it’s a good idea to carry some change with you.

Tipping. In France, tipping isn’t as common or expected as it is in some other countries, since a service charge of around 15% is typically included in the bill at restaurants and cafés. However, it’s still appreciated to round up the total or leave a small tip as a gesture of thanks for good service.

The currency used is the Euro (EUR). In France, including Paris, both cash and card payments are widely accepted. It’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or places that might not accept cards, like markets.

Medical insurance

I highly recommend getting travel medical insurance while you’re traveling. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. SafetyWing offers two flexible plans tailored to your travel needs — whether you’re a short-term adventurer or a long-term expat, you’ll have reliable coverage anywhere in the world.

SafetyWing is especially great for remote workers and digital nomads, offering continuous global coverage even if you’re hopping between countries. Of course, it’s also a solid option for frequent travelers or those constantly on the go. But if you’re only traveling occasionally or just for a short holiday now and then, there might be better-suited alternatives.

Itinerary

Day 1

After my partner and I enjoyed a French breakfast, we headed toward the city center. We strolled through our neighborhood in the direction of the Panthéon, passing the Galerie des Gobelins and many charming little cafés along the way. Our timing was perfect, arriving just a few minutes before opening, so we joined the already forming line. If you’re between 16 and 25 years old and a European citizen, you can enter for free — a chance we certainly didn’t miss!

The Panthéon is a beautiful building, originally built as a church but now a mausoleum housing the remains of France’s most notable figures, including Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie. Its stunning neoclassical design is inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, featuring a massive dome and intricate interior. You can also climb to the dome which offers an unforgettable panoramic view of Paris, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in French history, architecture or simply someone who loves a good view!

Next, we made our way toward the famous museum Louvre, which is only about a 25-minute walk from the Panthéon — a short hop for us. Alternatively, you can take Bus 27 or 21 directly from the Panthéon to the Louvre. Along the way, we passed the beautiful church on Place de la Sorbonne and the Fontaine Saint-Michel. We crossed one of the many bridges over the Seine and continued our walk toward the museum.

Upon arriving at the Louvre, we were shocked by the unbelievably long line. To make matters more confusing, it wasn’t clear where we were supposed to queue in, and even after asking a few people, no one really seemed to know the right line. Eventually, we found an employee who directed us to the area for time-slot reservations. We were beyond relieved to have booked our time slot online several weeks in advance. For those between 18 and 25 with European citizenship, it’s possible to book a time slot for free. No matter the season, I would highly recommend that everyone do the same to avoid spending hours waiting. In all our travels, we’d never seen a line this long!

The Louvre, originally built as a fortress in the 12th century and transformed into a royal palace before becoming a museum, houses some of the world’s most iconic masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. With over 35,000 works of art spanning from ancient civilizations to the 19th century, it’s a must-see for art and history lovers alike. The museum’s glass pyramid entrance, a modern architectural wonder, stands out beautifully against the historic buildings around it, making this Parisian landmark even more captivating.

We slightly underestimated just how large and diverse the Louvre is. We would have loved to stay longer to explore the artwork, but we were already quite hungry. Plus, parts of the museum were so crowded that it was hard to fully enjoy the experience. After a satisfying meal, we headed toward Notre Dame, strolling through many charming Parisian streets and along the Seine. Notre Dame is only about a 20-minute walk from the Louvre, though we took a bit longer to soak in the charm of the Parisian streets. Alternatively, you can take buses like the 21, 27, 69, or 72, or hop on Metro line 1.

Upon arriving at Notre Dame, we took a seat on a temporary viewing platform across from the cathedral to admire its magnificent Gothic architecture, with its famous twin towers, rose windows, and detailed sculptures. Built in the 12th century, Notre Dame is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture and I totally agree! Of course, we took the classic tourist photos and read through the information provided in a small exhibit nearby. Unfortunately, the cathedral was still closed for restoration following the 2019 fire, so we couldn’t visit the inside. Even so, the exterior alone is a stunning reminder of its cultural and historical significance and I’m already sure, I’ll come back!

Next, we made our way to the Jardin du Luxembourg, which is about a 15-minute walk from Notre Dame. The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the most beautiful parks in Paris, known for its large flowerbeds, fountains, and the elegant Medici statue. Many locals and tourists enjoy taking strolls here, relaxing on the green chairs around the large pond, and so did we. After spending the evening there, we headed back to our hotel. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Day 2

Our second day in the City of Love began with a delicious brunch at a charming French café close to our hotel. We decided to indulge ourselves a bit more than usual today because it was my birthday! The breakfast was probably one of the best French meals I’ve ever had, setting a perfect tone for the day.

Our next stop was one of the most famous landmarks in Paris: the Eiffel Tower. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, this towering iron masterpiece is a must-see in person. Surprisingly, standing on the open plaza below, the Eiffel Tower can look smaller than expected. However, as you walk closer, its grand scale and intricate ironwork become more and more impressive.

The plaza around the Eiffel Tower is quite bare, which is a little disappointing — it would be amazing if it were greener. But with so many visitors each day, keeping any grass alive is nearly impossible. After taking in the Eiffel Tower from several angles, we found a quiet bench in the nearby park to relax and soak in the view of the iron masterpiece. For those looking for breathtaking views over Paris, you can go up the Eiffel Tower, but we decided not to do it this time. Instead, we enjoyed the tower from below, appreciating its beauty from a variety of spots on the ground.

After relaxing in the park, we took a short walk over to the Seine for a boat tour we had booked in advance — a favorite activity when we travel! Cruising along the river was a perfect way to celebrate, offering amazing views of Paris’s most famous sights, like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the historic bridges that showcase the city’s rich history. The tour included commentary on Paris’s past, which made us appreciate each landmark even more and gave us a deeper understanding of the city’s story.

After our boat tour, we docked back at the same pier and set off toward the Trocadéro, one of the best spots to view the Eiffel Tower. Located across from the Warsaw Fountain in the Jardins du Trocadéro and just below the Palais de Chaillot, this spot offers a perfect perspective for photos or simply admiring the iconic tower from a distance. We picked up some snacks, including a giant Babybel cheese — something we’ve only ever seen in France and sat down on the grass for a little picnic.

Next, we made our way toward the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile. This famous monument is about a 25-minute walk or a 15-minute ride by bus or metro from Trocadéro. We chose to walk, enjoying the charming Parisian streets as we strolled along.

The Arc de Triomphe was built to honor those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, this massive arch stands at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, said to be the most iconic and vibrant street in Paris. The famous landmark is surrounded by the Étoile roundabout. The traffic is absolutely crazy there, so be careful when crossing the streets!

You can admire the arch from the outside, explore its interior rooms, and finish with a visit to the top, where panoramic views of Paris await. From there, you can spot famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Cœur, and the Champs-Élysées stretching toward the Place de la Concorde. We only admired the beautiful landmark from the outside since the line was unbelievably long, but next time I’d love to go inside as well! If you’re under 18, or between 18 and 25 and a citizen of the EU, you can enter for free.

Afterward, we took the metro to visit the famous Basilica of Sacré-Cœur. The basilica is known for its unique Romano-Byzantine architecture and its beautiful white stone. When we arrived, we strolled through a few of the small shops along the street leading up to Montmartre Hill. Then, we made our way up the hill and admired the basilica and the breathaking view. Inside, you can admire one of the largest mosaics in the world, “Christ in Majesty”. Entry is free for everyone. We ended our evening on the hill, sitting down to watch the sun set over Paris — a perfect, peaceful way to wrap up the day.

Day 3

Our third day in Paris was dedicated entirely to Disneyland. It was my first time visiting any Disneyland, and I was more than excited to dive into the world of Disney characters. From the rides and the parade to Disney-characters-shaped pastries, the amuesement park is decorated with incredible attention to detail, offering a breathtaking experience for both kids and adults alike. Every corner of the park is designed to immerse you fully in the Disney magic, making it a truly memorable adventure for visitors of all ages.

If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland, keep in mind that Paris offers both the classic Disneyland Park and the newer Walt Disney Studios Park. For our first visit, we chose to explore the classic Disneyland Park, known for its fairytale castle, incredible detailed decorations, and timeless Disney rides. Next time, though, we’d love to check out the newer Walt Disney Studios Park, which features more recent Disney and Pixar attractions, plus thrilling rides and immersive movie-themed areas.

Day 4

We spent our last day in Paris exploring the Palace of Versailles and its surroundings. To make things easier, we booked our tickets online a few weeks in advance. I have to admit, booking tickets was a bit challenging because there were so many options, and it took me a while to find the free tickets available for EU citizens under 26. But in the end, I managed to find them!

We visited both the main Palace of Versailles with its famous gardens, as well as the Estate of Trianon and its beautiful grounds. The Palace, originally a hunting lodge that King Louis XIV transformed into a grand residence, is known for its opulent Hall of Mirrors, decorative royal apartments, and incredible art and architecture. Although it was extremely busy when we were there, the visit was absolutely worth it. We fully enjoyed exploring each part of this magnificent estate and felt that Versailles was truly a highlight of our trip.

Meanwhile, the Estate of Trianon includes the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon palaces, which were used as more private retreats by the French royals, along with the Queen’s Hamlet, built for Marie Antoinette. The Estate of Trianon offered a quieter visit than the Palace of Versailles. Especially the gardens were quite empty, it was basically just us wandering around.

The entire estate is massive, so plan for a full day if you want to see it all! Each area offers its own unique charm, from the grandeur of the main palace to the tranquil beauty of the Trianon gardens.

After visiting both breathtaking buildings and enjoying a late lunch, we made our way back to the heart of Paris. We wandered through the city until we came across the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries. This historic garden stretches between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde. The garden is also dotted with cafés and shaded areas, making it an ideal place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. Here, we spent the afternoon strolling through the park’s pathways and relaxing on a comfortable bench, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and watching the day go by.

Our last stop for the day, and unfortunately also for our entire Paris trip, was Sainte-Chapelle. On our way back, we passed by the church and saw that it was about to close, but the last visitors were still being let in, so we wanted to go in as well. All EU citizens under 26 can enter Sainte-Chapelle for free.

Built in the 13th century on the orders of King Louis IX, Sainte-Chapelle is famous for its stunning, colorful stained-glass windows, which are regarded as some of the most beautiful in the world. The upper chapel, featuring over 600 square meters of vibrant stained glass, is truly breathtaking.Sadly, it was time to say goodbye to Paris. We definitely enjoyed our time there and are confident that this won’t be our last visit to the City of Love — it captured our hearts from the very beginning.

Summary of activities

• Eiffel Tower
• Musée de Louvre
• Musée d´Orsay
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Sainte-Chapelle
• Basilica Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre
• Jardin du Luxembourg
• Jardin des Tuileries
• Panthéon
• Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile
• Castle Versailles
• Boat Tour on the river Seine
• Opéra Garnier
• Disneyland

Summary of where to eat

• La Terasse St-Jacque – traditional french cuisine ^{(unpaid ad)}
• La Guinquette – mixed cuisine ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Café Brasserie Ragueneau – french café ^{(unpaid ad)}

Other France Blog